Everyone is special at TLC but there is always that person who runs the extra mile to help others unconditionally. Annie Elmer is one of many language lovers that made an impact on many of our members by teaching them English. It is known that many of us, most of the time, expat wives, come from other non-English-speaking countries and find ourselves in very frustrating situations because of our lack of English vocabulary. Unfortunately being an expat also means having to go and our dear Annie is going back to her home country leaving emptiness in our Khalifa City Branch.
Today I dedicate our blog to this very special lady.
What brought you the Language Club?
I found out about the Language Club from a post on Facebook asking for Native English volunteers to come along and in exchange learn another language.I had recently retired from teaching and it seemed a great opportunity to help and also engage my brain!
How was your experience at TLC?
I have loved going along to the Language Club every week and meeting so many friendly, interesting people so eager to learn.Being a teacher of a primary school working with children for over 40 years before I retired, it was great to work with people who were desperate to learn and disappointed when our ‘time was up’.
What is the biggest difficulty for English learners?
I feel the biggest difficulty for English language learners is having the confidence to ‘have a go’ and speak.There is always the fear of ‘getting it wrong’ or mispronouncing words.Language Club is such a great place to learn because it is friendly and non-threatening and help from ‘teachers’ is given in a sympathetic and helpful way.
What is the best way to help others with a second language?
Encouragement and empathy are always a great help for learners. Not putting them on the spot too often but helping them to put together their thoughts, opinions and above all making it fun. Those leading groups also need to be aware of the variety of levels and personalities of the group. Stopping make sure everyone is understanding and ensuring that new vocabulary is explained. Praise is always good!
Did you see any progress during your time with us?
I have seen fabulous progress with members of our Club and the number of people turning up every week with smiles on their faces and growing in confidence with their English has been great. Also look at the amount of new groups that have been started and are thriving. I am very proud to have been a small part in the success. I Wish I could say the same for my progress in learning Spanish!
What are your best memories with TLC?
My best memories are turning up and everyone arriving looking happy and all greeting each other.Being told by Ingrid to be ‘ quieter’ because we were laughing and having so much fun we didn’t realize we were being so noisy!!Playing Boggle in Spanish, not for the faint-hearted… Sharing good events with members.I have learned so much about other people’s countries and cultures and made some lovely friendships that will be long-lasting.
Everyone at TLC Khalifa City loves Annie, here are some messages from some of our members:
“Annie, is a key person for TLC and she played an important role in my life too. She always had a smile on her face and taught us with such dedication. Annie didn’t only teach us English but also to be confidence and how to use the English language without being ashamed of making mistakes. Annie always brought printed material for the group; she always had an extra pencil to lend, always had her blackboard and her good humor with her … and she was there for us EVERY Tuesday”. Thank you very much Annie for your generosity and your dedication. We will miss you a lot.” Sandy (Argentina)
“ I know that wherever God takes you, you will be happy because you are a happy person. Thanks for leaving us your legacy” Patricia (Chile)
“I wish you the best.You are a great person and an amazing teacher.Thank you very much for your dedication, we will miss you.” Nelly
“My dear Annie. I hope you do well on your new path, as you will be able to have your children and grandchildren closer. For me you were a great teacher and an excellent friend. I always remember you with great affection. I hope that one day we can meet again here in Spain, the doors of my house will always be open for you, I love you very much and many blessings for you and your family.” Durbi Araque
“Annie, I am so sad you are leaving Abu Dhabi. I really appreciate your efforts. You always help us so much to improve our English. I will never forget you. Let’s keep in touch.” Insook
“ Thank you Annie for dedicating your time to us. You had a great impact in my life as it was very difficult for me to live in a new country without being able to communicate. You always encouraged us to keep practicing no matter what and gave us that extra vocabulary to be able to get around. We will miss you.” Angela (Colombia)